By Faughn Uncategorized 0 Comments

Kings Art Center unveils new mural

After several months of sketching and painting, Jennifer Butts’ mural on the south side of the Kings Art Center was dedicated in a ceremony on Thursday afternoon.

Members of the Kings County Art Center, local officials, as well as art-minded individuals gathered to celebrate the mural and the art center itself.

https://hanfordsentinel.com/lifestyles/kings-art-center-unveils-new-mural/collection_14c66ae7-a76f-401a-a5b8-ae2e4a0898b5.html#5

By Faughn Education • New Developments 0 Comments

Madera Unified looking to the future with construction of new school

With the new school year starting for many, Madera Unified is already looking into the future with a new campus. King Husein School is the school district’s newest campus for TK through eighth grade. The campus is currently under construction. The school is located on the south side of Cleveland Avenue, west of Westberry Boulevard.

The school district said the new school will serve up to 1,000 students. The campus will include 10 buildings with academic wings, a multipurpose building with music, drama, dining spaces, and an art and science building. There will also be play courts, ballfields, and a covered basketball court.

Madera Unified said what makes the new school “stand out” is its dedicated STEM building, which focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The new school is set to open in August 2026.

https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/news/local-news/madera-unified-looking-to-the-future-with-construction-of-new-school/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_KSEE24_News

By Faughn Economy 0 Comments

Behind the Scenes at Merced County’s Landfill – It’s More Than Just Garbage! 

Today I had the chance to see firsthand the inspiring work being done by the Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority – and wow, what a huge operation!
This Joint Powers Authority (JPA), contracted with all the cities in Merced County, is running a sophisticated, science-driven operation. It’s not just a place where trash gets dumped. From environmental protection measures to recycling programs, methane gas capture, and careful waste processing, every step is designed to protect our community and our planet.
I had no idea how much planning, engineering, and science went into what happens after you throw something away. It’s an incredible example of regional cooperation and innovation at work.
Huge thanks to the entire Waste Authority team for turning what most of us overlook into an impressive system that keeps Merced County clean, sustainable, and forward-thinking. Thank you, James Moore, for the tour.
By Faughn Health/Medical 0 Comments

Adventist Health Heart Care Expansion Project receives $1M from Valley Strong Credit Union

Valley Strong Credit Union has pledged $1 million to Adventist Health Hanford— fueling the expansion of the hospital’s cardiac catheterization lab (cath lab).

The donation will go toward the hospital’s $10 million cath lab fundraising campaign, which is part of a larger $40 million investment to improve heart care services in Hanford. Cath labs are specialized medical facilities where diagnostic and therapeutic procedures related to the heart and blood vessels are performed using catheters or tubes.

“To celebrate this generous gift, which will elevate the cath lab waiting area and the experience for patients and their families, a special community event will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug.18, at Adventist Health Hanford. The event will include remarks from doctors and dignitaries, heralding the impact of this meaningful contribution,” organizers stated in a release.

“At Valley Strong, we are deeply committed to supporting the health and well-being of our community,” said Nick Ambrosini, President and CEO, Valley Strong Credit Union. “Our $1 million investment to the Hanford cath lab is a testament to our mission and values. We believe in making a positive impact and ensuring that our members and their families have access to top-notch medical care. This partnership reflects our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for everyone in our community.”

Adventist Health Hanford constructed its current cath lab nearly 15 years ago. The hospital’s service area includes more than 500,000 residents and spans five counties. In 2024, the cath lab team cared for more than 650 unique patients. With the expansion of four additional cath labs, that number is expected to grow to over 2,000 patients a year. The increasing demand for cardiac care has reached a tipping point, prompting the urgent need for these additional cath labs, which will be housed in a state-of-the-art facility adjacent to the existing hospital.

“This expansion isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about saving lives,” said Jason Wells, president, Adventist Health Central California Network. “Thanks to this generous donation from Valley Strong Credit Union, we are one step closer to improving access to critical procedures, from heart to bariatric and pediatric care, right here in our own community.”

The expanded cath lab will include the acquisition of ARTIS imaging technology, a modular and high-precision angiography system that enables quicker, safer, and more accurate diagnoses and treatments. The new center will increase the hospital’s current capacity and help attract top-tier cardiologists and specialists to the Central Valley.

https://hanfordsentinel.com/business/adventist-health-heart-care-expansion-project-receives-1m-from-valley-strong-credit-union/article_c578ea9c-1090-4f2c-90db-2a15219634b3.html#tncms-source=infinity-scroll-summary-sticky-siderail-latest

By Faughn Education • Workforce 0 Comments

Manufacturing pipeline grows stronger with FAME at Reedley College

A new era in workforce development is underway at Reedley College as the first cohort of students enters the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) era.

The students celebrated their participation in the Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) program as part of a nationally recognized model designed to close the skills gap in modern manufacturing.

Reedley College hosted the Central Valley FAME Signing Day on Monday, July 28, celebrating the launch of the Central Valley chapter of the FAME — the first in California and west of the Rocky Mountains.

The students were signed up by various local employers to go through the program. If they complete their free training, they can get hired permanently.

Developed by industry leaders, FAME provides technical training, hands-on experience and workforce-readiness skills to prepare students for well-paying careers in manufacturing. The local chapter is a collaboration between Reedley College, the San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Alliance (SJVMA), the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation and regional employers.

“It’s a bold commitment to workforce development, innovation and the bright future of American manufacturing,” said Reedley College President Jerry Buckley. “The FAME program represents a proven model that addresses one of today’s most pressing challenges — the growing skills gap in advanced manufacturing.”

Workforce, education unite

Through internships, apprenticeships and industry certifications, students build job-ready experience while earning a paycheck. The program allows participants to graduate with less debt, more technical experience and direct access to in-demand careers.

“The Central Valley is building a pipeline of talent that’s ready to compete and win in the local economy,” said Rep. Vince Fong (R-Bakersfield), who spoke alongside Rep. Jim Costa (D-Fresno) and State Center Community College District Chancellor Carole Goldsmith.

Fong emphasized the region’s vital role in California’s economy and praised the collaborative effort between education and industry.

“I don’t think any of you [students] consider yourself trailblazers, but you are the first,” he told students. “You can chart your path. Every cohort after you will model their goals and actions after all of you.”

An industry-led movement

Genelle Taylor Kumpe, CEO of the San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Alliance, said that having industry lead this initiative marks a “monumental movement” for workforce development in the region.

“What we have here — that maybe other regions don’t — is a deep sense of collaboration,” she said. “It’s the public and private sectors, education and employers working together to invest in talent and the future.”

Ellie Obregon, VP of human resources at Lyons Magnus, a sponsor of the local FAME chapter, said programs like this help address the ongoing shortage of skilled candidates in the manufacturing sector.

“Manufacturing is a skill that’s hard to find good candidates for,” Obregon said. “That’s why we partner with schools — to attract students early, offer tuition reimbursement, and give them a career path.”

She added that Lyons Magnus is always looking ahead, building a workforce pipeline through training and development.

Other participating companies include Lakos, Betts Company, Keiser Corporation, Wawona Frozen Foods, ADCO Packaging Machinery Company, Bee Sweet Citrus, Trillium and Excelsior.

https://thebusinessjournal.com/manufacturing-pipeline-grows-stronger-with-fame-at-reedley-college/

By Faughn New Developments • Workforce 0 Comments

Scannell breaks ground on $100 million Fresno industrial park

Scannell Properties broke ground on its new $100 million industrial park in southwest Fresno on Wednesday.

The project is proceeding after defeating environmental lawsuits in court seeking to block it.

The backstory: Last year Fresno lawmakers approved the warehouse project, which was quickly contested in court by a Southern California environmental justice group.

  • But the suit never picked up any steam as it was eventually dismissed in court.

The big picture: The property will provide around 1,000 jobs to Fresno.

  • It will span 48 acres located at the northeast corner of N. Marks and W. Nielsen avenues and will have four offices and warehouse buildings, totaling 833,000 square feet.

What they’re saying: Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer said this is the biggest deal he has been part of since he became the mayor.

  • Will Oliver, the President and CEO of the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation, said Fresno had projects go to other states because of the lack of industrial space.
https://sjvsun.com/news/fresno/scannell-breaks-ground-on-100-million-fresno-industrial-park/
By Faughn Economy • New Developments 0 Comments

Madera County begins multi-million-dollar Rio Mesa Blvd expansion project

A multi-million-dollar project that will expand Rio Mesa Boulevard in Madera County broke ground Thursday. The project was first envisioned in 1995.

Officials say that this paves the path forward for a safer commute and infrastructure that will serve residents, homeowners, businesses and drivers for generations to come.

Madera County Supervisor Bobby Macaulay said that Thursday’s celebration is more than just the start of a road project. “It’s the beginning of a long-planned investment in the future of Madera County,” Macaulay said.

The project will have modern infrastructure, a multimodal design and utilities built to support full build-out, Macaulay said. It will have two travel lanes, a bike lane, landscaping and a total right-of-way. The Highway 41 bypass project design will stretch from Avenue 15 to Avenue 12. Completion of the project’s first phase is slated for 2026.

https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/news/local-news/rio-mesa-boulevard-expansion/

By Faughn New Developments 0 Comments

Tulare County greenlights rezoning of 718 acres near Goshen for industry, future development

The Tulare County Board of Supervisors has approved a plan to rezone 718 acres of farmland northwest of Goshen to accommodate both industry and additional uses in the future.

The board approved the initiation of a general plan amendment on July 22, which would allow development of the area once all environmental studies are complete. The new zoning designation would be considered “mixed use.”

The developer proposed building an industrial park on 190 acres west of Highway 99. The project was submitted to the county by developer Panattoni Development of Sacramento in collaboration with real estate firm Colliers International.

The project was submitted to the county at their Project Review Committee meeting in June.

The site plan shows five large buildings of various sizes that add up to 3.85 million square feet along Highway 99.

Development of the 718-acre plan would require cooperation with the City of Visalia, which supplies sewer service to Goshen, and approval from CalWater, which supplies water to the community.

Another notable part of the plan includes rezoning 137 acres at the northwest corner of Highways 99 and 198, also currently in agriculture. County Economic Development Manager Michael Washam said there’s no specific plan to develop this acreage, but he has seen interest in the past. The site enjoys the highest pass-by traffic count in the region. In addition to these industrial and commercial potential projects, Goshen is slated for more housing projects due to available land there, including this initiative to open more, but depending on sewer capacity from the City of Visalia. San Joaquin Valley Homes and Self Help Enterprises are currently busy with projects in Goshen.

It remains to be seen how Visalia will respond to these large-scale projects near the city limits. Recently, the City of Visalia initiated its 900-acre expansion plan for industrial and other commercial development near the airport.

https://thebusinessjournal.com/tulare-county-greenlights-rezoning-of-718-acres-near-goshen-for-industry-future-development/?mc_cid=ca9408d1be&mc_eid=bd857719cb

By Faughn Renewable Energy 0 Comments

Arevon’s Eland Solar-plus-Storage project now fully operational in California

Arevon Energy, a prominent player in the renewable energy sector, has officially launched its Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project near Mojave, California. This ambitious initiative, valued at $2 billion, stands as one of the largest solar-plus-storage installations in the United States. Now fully operational, the project is set to significantly contribute to Los Angeles’ electricity supply and enhance energy security for over 266,000 homes annually. With cutting-edge technology and a commitment to sustainable practices, Arevon is paving the way for a cleaner energy future while supporting local communities through job creation and economic contributions.

Overview of the Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project
The Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project is an extensive undertaking that combines solar power generation with advanced energy storage solutions. Located in Kern County, California, this two-phase initiative comprises Eland 1 and Eland 2. Together, they feature a staggering total nameplate capacity of 758 megawatts (MWdc) of solar energy complemented by 300 MW/1,200 megawatt-hours of battery storage. This facility is not just about generating power; it plays a crucial role in stabilizing California’s grid during peak demand periods and extreme weather conditions.

Significant Impact on Local Energy Supply
The significance of Eland cannot be overstated. It will produce approximately 7% of Los Angeles’s total electricity needs—enough to power more than 266,000 homes each year. The impact on local communities extends beyond just electricity provision; it also enhances reliability during critical times when demand surges due to heatwaves or other emergencies.

Innovative Technology for Energy Storage
A standout feature of the Eland project is its use of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries manufactured locally in Lathrop, California. These batteries are recognized for their safety and efficiency—having no reported fire incidents since their commercial introduction in 2019. They discharge power rapidly during high-demand periods, thereby fortifying California’s energy security while providing a stable supply of clean energy.

Ceremony Celebrating Operational Launch
On August 6th, 2025, Arevon celebrated the completion of this monumental project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by public officials and community leaders. Key figures included Mayor Karen Bass from Los Angeles and representatives from various governmental agencies who acknowledged the collaborative efforts that made this project possible.

A Commitment to Renewable Goals
California aims to achieve 100% clean energy by 2035; Arevon’s Eland project aligns perfectly with this vision. Mayor Bass emphasized that such initiatives are instrumental in pushing Los Angeles towards its goal of becoming powered entirely by renewable resources by mid-century. The successful launch marks a significant milestone not only for Arevon but also for the city’s long-term sustainability goals.

Creating Jobs and Supporting Local Economies
The construction phase alone generated approximately 1,000 jobs in the region while fostering economic growth through an expected $36 million allocated to local governments over time. This financial support will directly benefit schools and public services within affected communities.

The Future of Clean Energy with Arevon
Arevon continues to solidify its commitment to renewable energy development across the U.S., operating over 5.3 gigawatts (GW) across various projects nationwide while investing significantly into new capacities. Their recent announcements highlight ongoing operations at several other sites within California—including additional solar-plus-storage projects—demonstrating their leadership role within this vital sector.

Community-Centric Initiatives
The company has also engaged actively with local organizations like Safe Haven Kid’s League in California City to provide essential services such as food security programs and workforce training initiatives aimed at enhancing community well-being—a testament to Arevon’s dedication toward social responsibility alongside environmental stewardship.

Conclusion: Paving the Way for Sustainable Energy Solutions
The launch of Arevon’s Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project marks not just another success story but sets a precedent for future renewable energy developments across America. By harnessing innovative technologies while prioritizing local engagement through job creation and community support programs—the company demonstrates how large-scale projects can effectively contribute both environmentally sustainable practices as well as significant socio-economic benefits within regions they serve.

This venture exemplifies what’s achievable when public-private partnerships come together focused on shared objectives: delivering reliable power responsibly while further advancing clean energy goals crucially aligned with California’s ambitious targets leading into upcoming decades ahead!

https://usasolarcell.com/news/2025/08/06/arevons-eland-solar-plus-storage-project-now-fully-operational-in-california/

By Faughn Economy • Education • Workforce 0 Comments

Fresno Area’s Newest College Grads Boast Nearly $24 Billion in Earning Power

Thousands of students are graduating from local universities and transitioning into the work world, bringing fresh faces and ideas — and immense career earning power. Fresno County is home to Fresno State, Fresno Pacific, and California Health Sciences University. Additionally, University of California, Merced is just an hour away. The four universities report a total of almost 8,500 students walking at commencement this spring. This includes hundreds of students receiving master’s and doctorate degrees. Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce says a bachelor’s degree holder will earn a median average of $2.8 million during their career — 75% more than the median average for a high school grad ($1.6 million). Multiply the Fresno area’s 8,500 college graduates by $2.8 million and their career earning power computes to $23.8 billion.

However, the figure is conservative because of California’s higher wages and the expected lifetime earnings of grads with master’s degrees ($3.2 million) and doctorates ($4 million). And it doesn’t include 2025 graduates from schools such as University of Phoenix-Fresno and National University-Fresno. Now here’s more good news for the Fresno economy: Much of that income will be generated, invested, and spent here. Based on data from Lightcast, an economic data mining service that the CSU partners with, of the 20,701 public profiles of Fresno State alumni who graduated between 2015 and 2025, 83.96% live and work in Central California, said Fresno State public information officer Lisa Bell. The other universities do not track where students go after college, but an analysis by Tallo, a website that connects students with resources, showed that 61% of college students plan on finding a job close to where they attended college. In addition, UC Merced and Fresno State report that over 50% of the graduating class are first-generation students.

Top Majors Among Graduates

The programs promising the highest pay are all STEM courses, but there is a wide variety of top majors from the four universities. Engineering and computer science are highest-paying majors according to Forbes. Both were a part of UC Merced’s most popular majors alongside biological sciences. However, Fresno States’ top majors were psychology, liberal studies, and biology. Fresno Pacific undergrads swayed towards liberal arts and early childhood development. There’s a clear mix of humanities, social sciences, and sciences among the Central Valley graduates, promising an even distribution between fields. California Health Sciences University had 109 medical students, and 22 master’s program students graduate with 23% completing residencies in the Central Valley. Sixty percent of the residencies are in Primary Care.

Breakdown of Colleges and Degrees

Fresno State had the biggest graduating class with 6,018 students walking at commencement: 5,125 receiving bachelor’s degrees and 866 getting their master’s. The doctoral cohorts and candidates consisted of 58 students receiving Doctor of Physical Therapy, Doctor of Educational Leadership, and Doctor of Nursing Practice. The College of Science and Mathematics had the largest class with a little over 1,000 graduates. UC Merced had 1,417 students walk at commencement with 1,296 getting a bachelor’s degree, 41 receiving a master’s degree, and 80 obtaining doctorates. The School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts had the largest class with 781 students walking. Fresno Pacific held ceremonies for 863 students graduating this spring. There were 467 students completing a bachelor’s degree and 396 students finishing a master’s degree. The largest number of students, 636, graduated from the School of Graduate and Professional Studies.

https://gvwire.com/2025/06/20/fresno-areas-newest-college-grads-boast-nearly-24-billion-in-earning-power/